Millions of parents aim to prepare their children for grammar school every year. Although entering and sustaining a grammar school can be challenging, it is a right fit for headstrong children who can pick up the pace with the lessons and stay motivated throughout the journey.
Grammar schools are selective secondary schools that emphasize academic achievement and enhancement of abilities. However, entering any limited grammar schools is not an easy journey, as every aspirant must work hard to pass the 11-plus.
The 11-plus test covers many verbal and non-verbal reasoning, Maths, and English topics. The test is sat by the children in Year 6 with a certain percentage. In any case, it can be overwhelming for you and your child to get ready for the 11-plus exam.
Here are some tips to enable your child to enter grammar school.
1.     Start with Research
There are only a few hundred grammar schools in the United Kingdom. It can be equally challenging to enter any of these schools. However, the entry test criteria can vary from school to school. Therefore, it is important to understand the type of test your child will be taking. There are two types of grammar tests for grammar schools.
a.     Center of Evaluation and Monitoring (CEM)
Center of Evaluation and Monitoring (CEM) is a test that helps evaluate a child’s potential for progress and absorption. It is an essential tool for educational institutions to understand how a student will comprehend the knowledge. This test style is preferred by 60% of grammar schools in the UK.
b.     GL Assessment Test
The GL assessment tests cover the subjects of Math, English, reasoning, and spatial awareness. All these questions are multiple-choice-style questions. Since each section of this paper is timed, your child must become proficient at time management. This type of test is preferred by 40% of grammar schools in the UK.
It is important to gather all information regarding the type of test your preferred grammar school prioritizes. It is best to ensure that you only use the most reliable mediums to gather valuable insight on subjects such as Tiffin 11 plus exam information.
2.     Involve Your Child’s School
Schools everywhere want the best for their students, especially if they are bright and on the right path, such as preparing for grammar school. However, it can be worrisome for the parents as well as the school if your child is not on the right path.
As a parent, you must track your child’s progress in school and see if their chances of passing the grammar school are low. In such circumstances, it is best to talk to their schools about the educational goals for your child.
Schools can give your child the needed educational attention and guide you better on the material needed to prepare for the 11-plus exam. In addition, your child’s teacher can guide you best on the areas that need work for your child to improve their chances of passing the test for grammar school.
3.     Prepare Early
It is never too early to prepare for an 11-plus exam. Early preparation can increase your child’s chances of getting into grammar school. One of the best ways to prepare early is to get your hands on practice papers and go through them together.
Practice papers can help you and your child get an idea of what to expect from the upcoming test. In addition, solving test papers also helps you identify the areas your child needs to put more work. Hence, your child can improve their skills in time instead of panicking at the eleventh hour.
4.     Hire a Tutor
Even with all the help from schools and parents, many students struggle with preparation for an 11-plus exam. After all, it is not an easy journey, and it is normal for students to get overwhelmed. In such circumstances, it is always recommended to hire a tutor for additional help.
Of course, hiring a tutor is more important for parents who work long hours and do not have the time or energy to help their children with homework and test preparation. Naturally, your child may not be able to learn new concepts without an adult’s help.
Unlike school teachers, a tutor can give your child one-on-one attention. You can look for tutors that have experience in tutoring children for 11-plus exams. You can also ask the potential tutor for a free trial lesson to under their teaching style and compatibility with your child.
5.     Encourage Healthy Breaks
Pressure and stress can make children and adults break down alike. Of course, all children need healthy and mental peace while studying. Otherwise, it becomes difficult for a student to understand concepts and do their best. It is best to avoid putting pressure on time as it only worsens the situation.
Therefore, it is always important to give your child a break from hours of education. Whether they like playing with their pet or indulging in video games, it is important to give them room to do whatever makes them feel relaxed. It is one of the best ways to boost their productivity.
In addition to breaks, it is also best to ensure that your child has a healthy diet and gets decent sleep every night. These factors can play a huge role in ensuring that one is more focused throughout the day. Hence, they can absorb the concept more efficiently.
6.     Prioritize Mental Well-Being
Yes, it is important for your child to study and get ready for their 11-plus exam. However, it is best not to forget about the emotional and mental well-being of your child. After all, a distressed child can never give something their best potential.
Preparing for an 11-plus exam can be very stressful. As a parent, it must be your best effort to ensure that your child is relaxed. You can start by ensuring that they are getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and socializing with their friends and family.
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